Who is considered one of the pioneers of documentary filmmaking?

Robert Flaherty is recognized as one of the pioneers of documentary filmmaking due to his innovative approaches and contributions to the genre. His work in the early 20th century, particularly with the film "Nanook of the North" (1922), is often credited as one of the first feature-length documentaries. Flaherty's focus on capturing real life, his use of non-professional actors, and his storytelling techniques helped to establish the documentary as a legitimate and impactful form of cinema.

Flaherty's emphasis on authenticity and the portrayal of real people in their natural environments set a precedent for future documentary filmmakers. His methods influenced the development of the genre by blending artistic storytelling with a commitment to factual representation, which remains a hallmark of documentary filmmaking today. Consequently, his legacy is foundational, making him a central figure in the history of the documentary form.